According to the World Health Organisation, 360 million people worldwide have hearing loss. Of those, 34 million are children. And by 2050, it’s estimated that more than 900 million people will be affected by hearing loss. Several things, including exposure to loud noise, certain medications, and ageing, can cause hearing loss. And while hearing loss is common, it’s also a serious problem. Hearing loss can lead to social isolation, depression, and even cognitive decline if left untreated. So, what exact level of hearing loss requires a hearing aid? The answer may surprise you.

Different Levels of Hearing Loss

There are different levels of hearing loss, and each level requires a different type of hearing aid. The common type of hearing loss is mild, which can be helped with a basic hearing aid. Moderate hearing loss requires a more powerful hearing aid, and severe hearing loss requires a specialised hearing aid.

 

Causes of Hearing Loss

There are many causes of hearing loss. Some causes are genetic, while others can be acquired through exposure to loud noise, certain medications, or other health conditions. The most common cause of hearing loss is age-related hearing loss, typically a gradual process that occurs over time. Other causes of hearing loss can occur suddenly and may be temporary or permanent. Some of the more common causes of hearing loss include

• Age-related hearing loss
• Exposure to loud noise
• Certain medications
• health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure
• Injury to the head or ear

Treatment Options for Hearing Loss

There are various treatment options for hearing loss, ranging from hearing aids to cochlear implants. The type of treatment that is right for you will depend on the severity of your hearing loss. If you’ve mild hearing loss, you may be able to get by with a hearing aid. Hearing aids amplify sound so that it’s easier for you to hear. Different hearing aids are available, and your audiologist can help you choose the one that is right for you.

If you have moderate or severe hearing loss, a hearing aid may not be enough to help you hear well. In this case, you may need a cochlear implant. A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted device into the ear that directly connects the auditory nerve and the brain. This allows people with severe hearing loss to hear well enough to converse. If you have hearing loss, it is essential to see an audiologist to assess your needs and recommend the best treatment option.

If you’re experiencing hearing loss, it’s essential to consult a hearing healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment. In many cases, hearing aids help improve your quality of life by amplifying sound & making it easier to communicate with others.

Attune is the leading provider of high-quality hearing aids in Australia. We offer a wide range of hearing aid models to suit every lifestyle and budget so that you can find the perfect solution for your needs. Our audiologists will work with you to find the right hearing aid and provide ongoing support to ensure you get the most out of your device. If you’re considering a hearing aid, contact Attune today for a free consultation. We’ll help you explore your options and find the perfect solution for your unique situation.